Think about this. Pet euthanasia is a difficult reality for animal workers and pet lovers alike. The crippling truth is that approximately 20 per cent of 200,000 dogs admitted to Australian shelters each year are euthanised, with cats facing an even more devastating rate of euthanisation.
Council’s Animal Management Centre is testimony to this fact. While the centre has achieved an impressive milestone of four years since a rehomable cat was euthanised and six years for rehomable dogs; every day, we have beautiful animals left there awaiting their new “forever homes”.
Christmas is looming and soon people will be thinking about gift giving for their loved ones.
A lot of thought is given to finding the perfect gift to give to those closest to us and if you have an animal-mad child or partner, the idea of giving a pet as a Christmas gift may seem like a wonderful gesture and of great joy to a family. After all, who wouldn’t be thrilled with the gift of an adorable puppy or new feline friend for Christmas?
Whilst this new furry family member can make the right person ecstatic beyond belief, it is extremely important to do your research beforehand. If you’re not completely certain that the gift recipient will be completely committed, it’s better to stick to socks and chocolate.
Remember, cute puppies grow into adult dogs that need regular exercise, training and veterinary care and they can’t be returned or exchanged if they don’t fit.
So, if you’re thinking of welcoming a pet to the family, make sure you can commit to its lifelong care and take the time to find your “pawfect” match. Sometimes the thrill of receiving a pet as a gift can quickly wear off when the new owner faces the reality of caring for an animal full-time.
So, if after considering the information above, you believe you can make this commitment, I encourage you to think of adopting a pet as a great alternative to purchasing from a pet store or a breeder. It is a great way to improve the life of a pet, and owners get to experience the benefits of caring for an animal in need. You have an opportunity to give an adoptive pet a “happy ever after” ending to their story.
Pets aren’t just for Christmas gifts. They’re for life.
Cr Pauline Townsend
Mackay Regional Council
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